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Tutor Suja 's Column

How Punctuations Can Change Meaning

May 22, 2017

Punctuations. What are they?

! . ; : “ “ ‘ ’ ( )

They are symbols that are used to aid the clarity and comprehension of written language.

And what a difference these can make to the written language! A comma misplaced could completely change the meaning of a sentence. Have a look at the sentences below to see for yourself:

 

Let’s eat, grandma.

This has the meaning that you want grandma to eat with you.

versus 

Let’s eat grandma.

This has the meaning that you would like to eat grandma! 

 

NO TRESPASSING VIOLATORS WILL BE PROSECUTED!

 

This has the meaning that you will not be prosecuted if you trespass.


versus

NO TRESPASSING. VIOLATORS WILL BE PROSECUTED!

 


Woman: Without her, man is nothing.

This has the meaning that if a man does not have a woman, he is nothing.


versus


Woman, without her man, is nothing.

This has the meaning that if a woman does not have a man, she is nothing.

 


Now, try to see if you can punctuate the following statements or correct the punctuations already on them:

1) There’s is no place like home.

2) Do not use Robert.


3)


This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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